SANTA CLARA -- NEC this week rolled out a new version of its SDN software that includes an OpenFlow-based method for interconnecting data centers.

Call ProgrammableFlow Networking Suite 5.1, the software includes a capability called Unified Network Coordinator, which is designed to enable construction and orchestration of virtual networks across multiple controllers within a data center as well as across interconnects between data centers. In so doing, UNC addresses requirements for improved disaster recovery and business continuity, greater bandwidth for new applications, big data and maintaining service levels, better access to remote applications and data, reduced management complexity and increased security.

UNC also enables moving virtualized resources to and from dispersed geographic locations, either because of expansion or consolidation. It also allows customers to collaborate on planned or unplanned events, such as weather-related outages or emergencies, NEC says.

Jim Duffy has been covering technology for over 28 years, 23 at Network World. He covers enterprise networking infrastructure, including routers and switches. He also writes The Cisco Connection blog and can be reached on Twitter @Jim_Duffy and at jduffy@nww.com.